How To Know If A Toy Is Made of PVC?

Wondering if your child's toys are safe? From plastics containing PVC, phthalates, and other chemicals to choking hazards from small parts, toys can be dangerous for our children. Get the facts on chemicals to avoid, plus tips on how to buy non-toxic toys.

ABC Toys Here are some things to avoid when buying new toys:

PVC: The manufacture of PVC releases toxins called dioxins into the air and water, which can enter the food chain and contaminate food sources. Additionally, two additives in PVC have caused it to be demonized in environmental circles—lead and phthalates.

Lead: Even trace amounts of lead can harm brain development.

Phthalates: These ubiquitous chemicals are used to soften hard plastics. Phthalates have been linked to premature births, early puberty in girls, reduced sperm quality in men, and reproductive defects.

Bisphenol A: This hormone-disrupting chemical has been linked to Down syndrome, early puberty, cancer, and many other conditions.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs): These substances are designed to slow the spread of fire in many consumer products. But their use in baby products poses a threat to developing bodies and brains.

Plastic toys aren’t the only ones that can poison playtime. Plush toys are often filled with synthetic materials or cotton soaked in pesticides. PVC is often used for stuffed animals’ eyes and noses.

Yet because manufacturers aren’t required to label products as containing toxic chemicals, and toys are increasingly coming from China and other Asian countries that don’t have regulations, parents without PhDs in biochemistry are confused. In addition, in response to consumer concerns, some manufacturers are labeling toys as “phthalate-free.” But the federal government doesn’t regulate the use of this label or ensure its accuracy, according to the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG). PIRG commissioned its own testing and found that six of eight toys labeled phthalate-free tested positive for phthalates.

When buying toys, consider these tips:

— Do a smell test. Toxic softeners in plastics often have a “beach ball” odor. Strong scents and perfumes can trigger allergies or asthma.

— Lean toward products made from natural materials: think organic cotton stuffed animals and wooden blocks.

— Can you safely buy used products? Dollhouses and building blocks often stand the test of time.

— Shop local: Craft fairs can offer some beautiful handmade toys and a chance to talk to the artisans about the materials used.

— Antique or imported toys may have lead in their paint. You can test toys for lead by purchasing a lead detection swab kit—from Lowe’s, Home Depot, or your local hardware store. However, be aware that no home test kit is considered 100% reliable.